Cornštejn Castle

Bítov, Czechia, Czech Republic (Czechia)

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Cornštejn Castle is a large medieval castle ruin located near the village of Bítov in South Moravia, dramatically situated on a rocky promontory above a bend of the Dyje River.

It was built in the early 14th century by the Lichtenburg family to help protect nearby Bítov Castle and important regional routes. Over time, Cornštejn grew into a powerful fortress with multiple defensive walls and fortifications. It played an important role during the Hussite Wars and later endured a famous eleven-month siege ordered by King George of Poděbrady in the 1460s.

Although strengthened and modernized afterward, the castle was eventually abandoned in the late 16th century and fell into ruin. Today, Cornštejn is one of the most picturesque castle ruins in the Czech Republic. Visitors can explore its extensive remains, enjoy panoramic views of the Dyje Valley and Vranov Reservoir, and experience a site rich in medieval history and local legends.